Two Local Shops Top Philly Cheesesteak List

According to the Philadelphia Business Journal, a trip down the Schuylkill Expressway is no longer necessary to find some of best cheesesteaks in the region. 

The publication's 'Tastiest Cheesesteak' list, which surveyed cheesesteaks from Lancaster County to Atlantic City, ranked the Collegeville Italian Bakery and Pudge’s Steaks and Hoagies in Blue Bell numbers four and five best, respectively.

Only Jake’s Sandwich Board, Philly Steak and Gyro and Joe’s Steaks and Soda Shop beat out two Montgomery County shops.

Collegeville Italian Bakery, located at 3846 West Ridge Pike in Collegeville, topped Pudge’s Steaks and Hoagies of 1510 Dekalb Pike in Blue Bell, which won the coveted top spot last year.

Both restaurants blew by traditional cheesesteak staples such as Tony Luke’s, Pat’s and Geno’s which came in at eight, 14 and 15, respectively.

The list was developed between April 23 and May 6, when Philadelphia Business Journal readers completed an online survey to nominate their top choices for best cheesesteak.

“Perfect blend of juicy beef, cheeses and spices and the rolls are made on the premises,” said one Collegeville Italian Bakery reviewer.  “Fantastic!”

According to the list, the sandwiches at the Collegeville Italian Bakery range from $6.50 to $8 and can include provolone, Whiz, fried onions, sweet pepper, tomato, mushrooms, pickles and sauce.

“We are so humbled and excited to announce that we have been ranked fourth in the Philadelphia Business Journal's Home of the Best Tasting Philly Cheesesteaks competition,” according to a statement from the business. “What an honor for a little mom and pop Italian bakery!”

Prices are a little higher for Pudge’s fans, ranging from $7.08 to $16.98, but customers don’t mind.

“Just can’t imagine anything better, and I’ve tasked all the ‘big’ names around town,” said one nominator.

Condiments at Pudge’s include American cheese, fried onions, raw onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mushrooms and pickles.